Rowan

The second letter in the Gaelic tree alphabet is Rowan (Luis in old Gaelic, Caorann in modern Gaelic), one of Scotland's most elegant and hardy trees. It is dispersed by birds to all kinds of remote, craggy spots, which means you can come across it in the most unlikely places, and its fronded leaves, sweet-scented blossom, profuse bright red berries and smooth grey bark make it a joy to encounter. The folklore on rowan is dense with magic and mystery.

Here's a poem by Mandy. It was first published in letting light in, her first poetry collection, produced by Essencepress, now sadly out of print.

Rowan

The rowan grows tall
passed over by all
storms
it forms
here in the open wilds
the perfection of a child's
painting of a tree
untested by tragedy.

Mandy Haggith

Here's another poem, packed full of lore, by Colin Will. Thanks to him for permission to reproduce it here.

Robin’s Rowan

Guardian, gate-keeper, path-protector,
you ward against the threat of evil
at the entrance to this house.